MISSION STATEMENT
Every human, big or small, deserves to feel empowered to create. At Center Theater Company, our young actors are at the Center of the creative process. Thus, our shows are both by our kids, and for our kids! Although learning to take direction is important, it is far more important to learn to follow your impulses and have your own creative ideas be heard and implemented. If you think a Taylor Swift song is perfect for a Midsummer Night’s Dream, then why not! If you get a great idea for your costume, then put it on and show us! If you come up with some fun blocking, we will always try it!
You feel proud of your work when you have ownership of your work!
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Jenny Latimer
Jenny is a professional actress and director who has performed with Broadway National Tours, Off-Broadway shows, and Regional Theaters in Utah, Texas, Connecticut, Maryland, California and New York. She has also been a guest performer on America’s Got Talent and the Academy Awards.
She directed the World Premiere of Claybourne Elder’s “Around the World in 80 Days,” a screwball musical comedy at Theater Raleigh, and is currently directing “Into the Breeches” as a part of their 2021 season.
She has an MFA in acting from UNC Chapel Hill, where she created and taught musical theater classes for undergraduates. She also directed a gender bent version of Romeo and Juliet and a new work called “The Kritik.”
She adores working with children, and finds magic in seeing the world through their eyes, encouraging their innate creativity, and letting their joy and passions shine through!
Although following direction is important, Jenny believes it is vital for children to be an active part of the creative process. Kids gain empowerment and confidence when their voices are heard – qualities that will take them far both in the theater and in life.